Introduction
The Wilted Escarole with Country Ham and Chiles recipe offers a harmonious blend of robust flavors from the savory ham, zesty chiles, and fresh escarole. This classic dish is beloved for its simplicity and delightful taste that can be easily adapted to your culinary preferences.
Tips for this recipe
To enhance the flavor of your Wilted Escarole with Country Ham and Chiles, consider using a fresh chili pepper variety for an extra kick. Ensure that all ingredients are well-balanced in terms of salt to maintain the dish’s savory essence.
Why you will love this recipe
This time-honored recipe celebrates the heartiness of country ham and the crispness of wilted escarole, making it a comforting choice for any meal. The marriage of these ingredients brings forth a taste that is both nostalgic and satisfying, promising to become an instant favorite in your home.
Ingredients
– 1 lemon
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 garlic cloves, very thinly sliced
– 2 ounces country ham or prosciutto, cut into matchstick-size pieces (about 1/2 cup)
– 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
– 2 heads of escarole (about 2 pounds), leaves torn into medium pieces (16 packed cups)
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) unsalted butter
Adviced equipments
– Electric Mandoline Slicer: For slicing escarole and other vegetables uniformly.
– Wok: Ideal for stir-frying chiles and ham, offering high heat retention and even cooking surface.
– Cast Iron Skillet: Perfect for searing or sautéing country ham to bring out its flavors before adding it to the dish.
– Slow Cooker: For a convenient option if you’re looking at preparing this recipe with pre-cooked ham and cooked escarole.
– Spice Grinder: To freshly grind chili peppers for an authentic, homemade flavor in the dish.
– Poultry Roaster: A great option if you prefer to roast a whole ham instead of using pre-sliced ham.
– Food Processor: Useful for quickly chopping or pureeing ingredients like chiles (if fresh preparation is preferred).
History of the recipe
Wilted Escarole with Country Ham and Chiles has roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where it’s a testament to the culinary fusion between European influences and American ingredients. The dish showcases the versatility of ham as both a seasoning and centerpiece, while escarole provides the necessary greens that complement its richness with texture and freshness.
fun facts about this recipe
Did you know? Escarole is often overshadowed by its cousin kale but packs a robust flavor profile perfect for hearty dishes like Wilted Escarole with Country Ham and Chiles. Moreover, the use of chiles in Southern cooking isn’t just about heat; it adds depth to every bite, making this recipe more than just an ordinary meal—it becomes a celebration of cultural history and flavor on your plate.